Serving Clovis, Portales and the Surrounding Communities

Science center holding field day

The annual field day for New Mexico State University’s Agricultural Science Center at Clovis Aug. 7 will highlight crop research and dairy production relating to New Mexico, according to an NMSU news release.

The program will include a rolling tour of crop research projects being conducted at the center, followed by breakout sessions to highlight specific research and Cooperative Extension Service programs related to irrigation efficiency, alternative cropping systems and dairy production.

The new six-acre sub-surface drip irrigation demonstration project will be showcased by Mark Marsalis, extension agronomist, and attendees will be able to learn about drip installation and practicality.

“This year’s program focuses on irrigation efficiency and potential ways to improve and prolong the existence of agriculture on the eastern side of the state,” Marsalis said. “Our goal is to get producers to think outside the box so that they will be able to adapt to the inevitable certainty of restricted water-use operations and reduced well capacities.”

Sangu Angadi, crop stress physiologist, will present information on the various short-duration crops he has been researching for best-fits into cropping systems in the region.

Victor Cabrera, extension dairy specialist, will present ongoing research and extension projects of the dairy extension team and how these efforts benefit New Mexico producers.

NMSU College of Agriculture and Home Economics Dean Lowell B. Catlett will address attendees during lunch.

The field day is free and registration will begin at 8 a.m. Lunch will be served at noon. The science center is located 13 miles north of Clovis on State Road 288.

Contact Marsalis for information about the field day at 985-2292 or [email protected]. Individuals with a disability in need of an auxiliary aid or service to participate should contact Marsalis in advance.